In a significant blow to Australia's manufacturing sector, Queensland-based luxury caravan builder Zone RV has collapsed, resulting in the immediate loss of approximately 120 jobs. The company appointed administrators on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, casting a shadow over the future of the once-thriving business.
A Sudden End for a Market Leader
Administrators from Cor Cordis, Andrew McCabe and Robert Dower, were formally appointed to oversee the affairs of Zone RV Pty Ltd. The swift nature of the collapse has left employees and customers reeling. The administrators confirmed that all staff were made redundant upon their appointment, with no prospect of immediate reinstatement.
The company, known for its high-end, custom-built caravans, had established a strong reputation in the recreational vehicle market. Its sudden failure highlights the ongoing pressures facing Australian manufacturers, particularly those in the consumer discretionary sector where demand can be volatile.
Administrators Scramble to Secure Assets
The primary focus for Cor Cordis is now securing Zone RV's physical assets and determining what, if anything, can be salvaged for creditors. The administrators are conducting an urgent assessment of the company's financial position and its remaining assets at the Yatala facility on the Gold Coast.
This process will involve evaluating unfinished caravans, tools, equipment, and intellectual property. A key question will be whether the business can be sold as a going concern, or if its assets will need to be broken up and sold individually. The outcome will significantly impact the return to creditors, which include former employees owed wages and entitlements.
Broader Implications for the RV Industry and Economy
The collapse of Zone RV sends shockwaves beyond its Gold Coast headquarters. It represents a notable failure within an industry that experienced a massive boom during the COVID-19 pandemic, as Australians sought domestic travel options. The downturn suggests a market correction is firmly underway.
The loss of 120 skilled manufacturing jobs is a serious concern for the local economy. It also leaves customers who had placed orders and paid deposits in a precarious position, potentially facing significant financial losses. The administrators will need to communicate with these customers as a matter of priority.
This event serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of even well-regarded businesses in the current economic climate, marked by high inflation, rising interest rates, and shifting consumer spending patterns. The future of the Zone RV brand, celebrated for its innovation and quality, now hangs in the balance as the administrators begin their difficult task.
